The myth about your rights and union recognition

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We are frequently approached by members who have been wrongly told by colleagues that you must be a member of the ‘Recognised Trade Union’ to be allowed to have a union officer represent them at a grievance, discipline or capability hearing. The reason this myth or perhaps even lie is told is to encourage people to join an alternative union. The plain fact is that you are entitled to be represented by the union of your choice regardless of whether it is the recognised trade union or not. It is in fact against the law to treat someone differently because of their union membership.

We at the IPA have a proud and enduring record of effectively representing our members on a wide range of matters, and where appropriate and necessary we have and will continue to take cases to court to ensure our members rights are upheld and protected.

We are concerned that the law and facts are being misrepresented to members who may feel that they are not protected by being a member. This is absolutely not the case and we proud that unlike other bodies your membership automatically gives you up to £30,000 of legal protection for employment related matters and access to highly competitive insurance for international and higher-level protection.

The IPA is always ready and willing to act on behalf of members facing unjustified action against them whether that be in cases of redundancy, discipline or TUPE transfer. We have taken and won cases in Employment Tribunals on all these and other matters and will not shy away from doing so again.

As a pilot you can concentrate on safe flying in the knowledge that we will cover you and deal with any unfair irritations that sometimes come along to distract you.